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Classic Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans: Easy Homemade Recipe

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This classic chicken salad combines juicy red grapes, toasted pecans, and a creamy tangy dressing for a quick, crowd-pleasing lunch or appetizer. It’s perfect for meal prep and gets even better after a day in the fridge.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 cup red grapes, halved
  • ¾ cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
  • ½ cup celery, finely diced
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from pan and set aside to cool.
  2. If using rotisserie chicken, remove skin and shred meat with two forks. If using poached chicken breasts, dice into small bite-sized cubes.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in fresh dill if using.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, halved grapes, diced celery, sliced green onions, and cooled toasted pecans.
  5. Pour dressing over the mixture and fold gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Chill for at least 30 minutes (2 hours is ideal) to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  8. Serve on bread, lettuce cups, crackers, or a bed of greens.

Notes

Toasting pecans is non-negotiable for best flavor. The salad tastes even better after a day in the fridge. For extra crunch, add pecans just before serving. If using rotisserie chicken, remove skin and shred. For a lighter version, swap half the mayo with Greek yogurt.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken salad, grapes, pecans, easy chicken salad, classic chicken salad, lunch recipe, meal prep

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